This is education's favorite question. Why did you decide to enter a poorly paid, barely respected, child infested profession. Well . . . For me I always knew this is what I wanted to do. From a young age it was the kind of thing that just made sense to me. I LOVED school, particularly my humanities courses. However, I always thought that I would end up teaching elementary school. It wasn't until I taught preschool that I realized it was not for me. Everyday I came home from that job I hated my life a little bit more. Teaching four-year-olds required so much energy! There was not a day where I did not come home exhuasted. However, I loved to see people learn and know that I was a part of that. It was such a special thing to witness.

Eventually I met with a college advisor that introduced me to the secondary social studies education course catalogue. I wanted to take every course on that catalogue– no exaggeration. That was my push toward social studies. When it comes to social studies I am a huge nerd. Truthfully, I am grateful that I have an outlet to nerd out. I know this makes a difference to students. They can see just how much I love what I teach, which helps with engagement. I'm sure my friends and family are grateful I have an outlet for my love for all things social studies.

Beyond my initial why, I am grateful for the relationships and connections I build with students. It is especially special when I can relate to my students on a cultural level. I never got that, but I can tell it makes a difference. This may seem cheesy, but in my room I have a sticky note that says, "80% of educators in the U.S. are white. Put in the work so that kids like me can see themselves." It it my constant reminder that the work that I am doing is meaningful.

I am proud to be a teacher. Many people today do not understand that. But it is a job that challenges me everyday in the best ways possible. It challenges me to be more patient, be a better person, listen, challenge others, and disrupt traditional forms of thinking.

I love my job.